Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Agnipath Scheme, Promises Reforms in Haryana

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi slammed the central government over the Agnipath scheme, saying it deprives Agniveers of pensions in favor of the wealthy. During his “Vijay Sankalp Yatra,” Gandhi also promised guaranteed MSP for farmers and financial support for women in Haryana if Congress comes to power.

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, launched a scathing attack on the central government on Monday, criticizing the Agnipath scheme. Gandhi argued that Agniveers should not harbor any misconceptions, as the government intends to revoke their pension benefits, redirecting these funds to benefit elites like Adani. According to Gandhi, ordinary soldiers will continue to receive lifelong pensions, but those branded as Agniveers will lose this entitlement.

Gandhi alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's actions serve the interests of the affluent. Citing Modi's self-proclaimed divine connection, he questioned how such a relationship could dictate policies supposedly favoring only the wealthy. "Every decision Modi ji makes appears to be exclusively for the rich," he said.

During his "Vijay Sankalp Yatra" in Ambala, Gandhi promised significant reforms for the state of Haryana. He pledged guaranteed minimum support prices (MSP) for farmers and Rs 2000 financial assistance for women under the Mahila Shakti Yojana. Additionally, Gandhi committed to creating two lakh jobs in the Haryana government, ensuring equal representation across all social strata, and conducting a caste census in the state.

Highlighting the political scenario, Gandhi emphasized that the upcoming Haryana elections would be a straight contest between Congress and the BJP. He urged voters to support Congress for substantive change. The Haryana polls are scheduled for October 5, with results expected on October 8. In the 2019 elections, the BJP emerged as the largest party, securing 40 out of 90 seats, while Congress won 30 seats.

(With inputs from agencies.)